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Heiress: meaning, definitions and examples

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heiress

 

[ ˈɛrɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

wealth inheritance

A female heir to a fortune or title, especially one who inherits a large sum of money upon the death of a relative.

Synonyms

heiress apparent, heiress presumptive, inheritrix

Examples of usage

  • She is the heiress to a billion-dollar fortune.
  • The young heiress was known for her extravagant lifestyle.
  • The heiress inherited the family estate after her parents passed away.
Context #2 | Noun

succession rights

A woman who inherits or has the right of inheritance to a position, title, or office.

Synonyms

beneficiary, inheritor, successor

Examples of usage

  • The princess was the heiress to the throne.
  • She is the heiress to the family business.
  • The heiress to the company took over as CEO.

Translations

Translations of the word "heiress" in other languages:

🇵🇹 herdeira

🇮🇳 उत्तराधिकारी

🇩🇪 Erbin

🇮🇩 ahli waris perempuan

🇺🇦 спадкоємиця

🇵🇱 dziedziczka

🇯🇵 相続人

🇫🇷 héritière

🇪🇸 heredera

🇹🇷 mirasçı kadın

🇰🇷 상속녀

🇸🇦 وريثة

🇨🇿 dědička

🇸🇰 dedička

🇨🇳 女继承人

🇸🇮 dedinja

🇮🇸 erfingi

🇰🇿 мұрагер әйел

🇬🇪 მემკვიდრე ქალი

🇦🇿 varis qız

🇲🇽 heredera

Etymology

The word 'heiress' originated from the Old French word 'heritier' which means 'inherit'. It first appeared in the English language in the 14th century. Heiresses were historically important figures in aristocratic families as they carried on the family lineage and inheritance. In modern times, the concept of heiress has evolved to include women who inherit wealth, titles, or positions. The term has been used in literature, film, and popular culture to depict characters who are wealthy and privileged.

See also: heir, heirloom, heirlooms, heirs, heirship.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,630, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.